Harvard Hall

BOS_07_2011_Harvard_Hall_2877

Appletons'_Harvard_John_-_Harvard_hall

Harvard Hall is a historic academic building located in Harvard Yard at Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts. It is one of the oldest buildings on the Harvard campus and has played a significant role in the university's history.

History

The original Harvard Hall was constructed in 1677 and served as the main building for Harvard College. It housed the college's library, classrooms, and offices. Unfortunately, the original building was destroyed by fire in 1764, which also resulted in the loss of many valuable books and scientific instruments.

The current Harvard Hall was built in 1766 to replace the original structure. The new building was designed to be fireproof and more durable. Over the years, Harvard Hall has undergone several renovations and restorations to preserve its historical significance and maintain its functionality for modern academic use.

Architecture

Harvard Hall is an example of colonial Georgian architecture. The building features a symmetrical facade, brick construction, and classical details such as pilasters and pediments. The interior of the building includes lecture halls, classrooms, and faculty offices.

Notable Events

Harvard Hall has been the site of many important events in the history of Harvard University. It has hosted lectures by prominent scholars, debates, and other academic activities. The building also played a role during the American Revolution, serving as a barracks for soldiers.

Current Use

Today, Harvard Hall continues to be used for academic purposes. It houses classrooms and lecture halls that are used by various departments within the university. The building remains a central part of the Harvard Yard and a symbol of the university's long-standing tradition of excellence in education.

Related Pages

• Harvard University
• Harvard Yard
• American Revolution
• Colonial Georgian architecture
• Harvard College